A clogged sewer line starts as a nuisance and can lead to more serious issues. After all, a line that hasn’t been cleared properly will start to clog, if left the clog will build until it blocks the pipe. At that stage all the wastewater going down the pipe will have nowhere to go and will start to backup in the pipe, ultimately it will spill out into your home. That’s not a desirable scenario.
Signs Of A Clogged Sewer Line
A clog doesn’t usually happen instantly, it is usually a slow buildup. That means you will get a warning regarding what is about to happen. This usually shows as appliances that drain slowly. If the slow draining occurs in just one appliance then the clog is likely to be in the ‘S’ trap that sits below it.
You should be able to remove this and empty it to resolve the issue. However, if multiple appliances are experiencing slow draining then you are more likely to have an issue in your sewer line.
Remember, that the sewer line is your responsibility right up to where it meets the main sewer line. Also, if you have drainage in London and have a blockage prefer an experienced drainage service that does quality work for your drainage.
Check the issue
The most likely cause is a clog but to ensure this is the case you’ll want to invest in a drain camera and inspect the inside of the sewer pipe. The camera simply slides inside the pipe and gives you a live feed. This allows you to identify the issue and work out exactly where it is in the pipe.
Use Drain Rods
You can then remove the camera and insert the drain rods. These have a twisted point that is perfect for breaking up a clog. Simply insert the pipes until you reach the right distance to hit the clog then push it forward, twisting as you do so.
This should breakup the clog and get the water flowing again.
it doesn’t work you can use a high-pressure hose to push the blockage out of the way. If this isn’t an option you may want to get a professional to help clear the blockage.
Use the Camera Again
The next step is to put the camera back into the sewer pipe. You’ll want to return to the site of the clog to ensure it has been fully broken up and washed away.
It is also a good idea to inspect this area thoroughly. The clog may have simply been caused by an excess of toilet paper or a toy posted into the toilet. However, it could also be due to a damaged sewer line, potentially caused by tree roots or excessive pressure.
If this is the case you’ll want to repair the area to prevent it from happening again. That means adding an insert inside the pipe or digging it up and replacing the damaged section.
Of course, if it has been caused by tree roots you’ll need to make sure they won’t damage it again or that they haven’t damaged another section of the pipe.